Plantation Shutters for Melbourne’s Period Homes: Blending Old and New

Despite the modern homes being built in Melbourne, many historical and period homes still exist. Homeowners who reside in these homes want to preserve them to showcase the unique features of the specific period they were built. Whether it’s a Victorian, Edwardian or Georgian home, decorating it with interior details and window treatments that complement the period style of the home can be challenging. You might wonder: are plantation shutters a good option for Melbourne’s period homes? Let’s find out as we explore how to integrate the old and new with this window treatment.

Plantation Shutters for Period Homes

Plantation shutters are a timeless choice for window coverings. Although there are modern options, they remain the go-to choice for many Melbourne homeowners because of their style and functionality benefits. However, are they a good choice for period homes? 

The answer is that plantation shutters suit best period homes or those with traditional styles. They efficiently complement the overall look and appearance of these homes. 

Period homes are known for their unique window styles and shapes. Many period homes have oversized windows or unique shapes, including bay windows. Plantation shutters and period homes are a match made in heaven in this sense because you can customise the fit of window shutters to accommodate the unusual shapes of these windows. Plantation shutters accentuate the elaborate decorative framing on windows to deliver aesthetic appeal. 

Buying off-the-shelf or ready-made window coverings is not even an option with period homes. Instead, bespoke and custom plantation shutters are the answer because they can fit any window shape, and you can pick various finishes and sizes to blend with the interior of period homes. 

Benefits of Plantation Shutters for Period Homes

If you’re not yet convinced that plantation shutters are the best window options, here are some benefits to consider.

1. Blending Old with New

Many Melbourne homeowners take pride in owning a period home. These homes remain in high demand because of their rarity and unique exterior features. However, many struggle with balancing old and new features. They want to preserve the period style of the home while considering their modern needs.

Plantation shutters hold the answer because these window coverings preserve the exquisite styles and romantic charm of Victorian or period homes. At the same time, they are highly functional and can be easily customised to fit the unique interior details of the home. So, whether you have a lavish home interior or a minimalist one, plantation shutters will complement that and will not stick out like a sore thumb. 

2. Make the Space Airy and Bright

A common feature in most period homes is that they have large windows. You can use this design feature of Victorian and period homes in Melbourne with plantation shutters. Aside from tailoring the fit to match the unique size and specifications of the window, it can also make the interior space look airy and bright.

Plantation shutters, when the louvres are adjusted, let plenty of natural light into the space. Alternatively, they can be adjusted to reduce light and add privacy.

In addition to bringing lots of natural light into the home, plantation shutters are also a great way to complement the high ceilings of period homes. It helps to draw the eye up toward the ceiling, making the space look bigger than it really is. 

3. Various Style Options

Plantation shutters offer various style options, which adds to their versatility when used as a window treatment for period homes. You should consider the windows of the home in choosing the right plantation shutter style to complement the aesthetics while adding functionality.

Here are plantation shutter styles available for different window styles for period homes:

• Full Height – Full height plantation shutters cover the entire length of the window. It is perfect for most rooms in a house because it adds elegance and maximum privacy to the space.
• Tier-on-Tier – Tier-on-tier shutters cover the entire length of the window, but the top and bottom panels have opening and closing mechanisms. It gives complete control over the light and privacy in your home.
• Solid Raised – Solid raised shutters can be full or half-raised. A full solid raised shutter is based on a traditional Victorian window covering that can black out the light from entering the room. On the other hand, a half-solid raised shutter features a solid lower panel with the upper half made of adjustable louvres. 
• Café Style – Café style shutters cover the lower portion of the window with the top clear to invite light into the space. It is ideal for rooms that need privacy over light reduction.

4. Fit for Any Period Style Home

If you believe plantation shutters are only suitable for Victorian homes, think again. This window treatment is versatile enough to enhance a variety of classical-style homes. 

It is the most popular option for Victorian homes in Melbourne, which feature a brickwork exterior, a brickwork porch, large windows, and high-pitched roofs. Installing Victorian-style plantation shutters offers flexibility by taking advantage of the large windows to open the space and provide privacy when needed. This window treatment adds to your home value and energy efficiency.

Edwardian homes are also popular in Melbourne, and most of these houses are built in a straight line. They have timber-framed porches, cladding, two-panel sash windows, and large glass panes. They are not as elaborate as Victorian homes as far as details are concerned, but plantation shutters can beautifully complement the sash windows. Tier-on-tier shutter styles fit them best, but you can pick other styles depending on the light you want in your home. 

Additional Tips for Decorating Period Homes

Aside from installing plantation shutters, consider these added tips to decorate period homes and enhance their overall value.

• Paint the walls the same colour as the furniture to maximise the height of your ceiling. This creates a continuous flow from the floor to the ceiling, making it appear taller and more spacious than it is.
• Hard wooden flooring works best on period homes; you can add a luxurious rug to soften the room.
• Invest in furniture that fits the period style of your home. You can find valuable pieces from antique stores to create a cohesive look.
• Invest in plantation shutters. They can complement any classical home styles, such as Victorian, Edwardian, and Georgian. It reduces up to 50% of heat loss during winter and invites more light into your space. These window coverings are a better solution than glazing your windows, which can lower the market value of your home. On the other hand, plantation shutters can boost the market value of period homes.

Preserving a period home in Melbourne can be tricky because you want to honour its style while enhancing its livability. Take advantage of these tips to help preserve your home and make it comfortable to live in all year round.